Luxury apartments in uphill Lincoln are taking shape as part of a multi-million pound project to transform an 18th century building.

The transformation in the heart of Lincoln's cathedral quarter is taking place at a unique site offering unparalleled views of the city.

With a year left until completion of Bailgate Court, eight of the 12 luxury apartments have already been snapped up.

The impressive entrance way into the building

Bailgate Court, on the corner of Steep Hill and Wordsworth Street is known to many as the old Chad Varah House, the structure was built as an infirmary in 1776, treating patients until 1874 when it became a college, before being used by the university.

Property developer Dean Draper had been keeping a close eye on the building and when it came on the market the offer was made straight away along with partners Colin Holden and Philip Good.

Stunning views from the apartments (Image: Sarah Washbourn)

Mr Draper said: "I first spotted it back in 2006 and I had been chasing the building ever since – there really is nothing else like it left in the city, it is truly spectacular."

Jonty Pearson, Partner at law firm, Wilkin Chapman solicitors, was brought in to assist with the purchase: “What a great project to be a part of. A fantastic development for the city with the involvement of many local people. Both Wilkin Chapman and I take great pride in seeing projects coming together in this way,” he said, as he toured the site with Mr Draper.

Following the sale, renowned firm Jonathan Hendry Architects was brought in to create spectacular plans for the building.

The apartments are starting to take shape

Mr Draper added: “With its listed status, we are restricted to the ‘light touch’ approach on the majority of the building, it is a sympathetic restoration, making the most of the building's charming original features.”

While light touch is the approach for the historic elements of the structure, the dramatic change will come when a vast glass façade takes the place of an old 1960s extension with fantastic views of both the Cathedral and Castle.

The outside of Bailgate Court (Image: Sarah Washbourn)

Meanwhile, a workforce of more than 20 are undertaking the work, under the watchful eye of partner Colin Holden. Inside, traditional materials are being used to re-plaster walls and create open plan living areas.

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Plasterer Bruce Randall is using materials containing lime and horse hair – taking methods back to the 1700s.

He said: "It is getting used to these products, and patience is everything as a job that would take two hours can take four – but it is all worth it when you see the finished result."

The apartments have stunning views of the cathedral, castle and across Lincoln

Colin’s team are adding mezzanine floors, while retaining the high ceilings and vast room sizes to create open plan living with light flooding in from the floor to ceiling windows. Each apartment has great views with the majority having private gardens or outdoor terraces.

Outside, the grounds encompass the site of a Roman fortress, which will remain untouched, although Mr Draper is keen to work with the relevant organisations to see what can be done in the future.

The apartments are starting to take shape inside (Image: Sarah Washbourn)

Mr Draper added: "There is no doubt that we have the opportunity here to create something very, very special that will only enhance the city while preserving a fantastic old building with a great new future."